New York Yankees slugger Ben Rice is set to compete in the Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on Monday, marking a significant milestone in his first All-Star Game appearance. Rice, who leads the Yankees with 25 home runs entering Tuesday, will have his father, Dan Rice, a former college pitcher at Brown University, pitch to him during the event. The player described the moment as a “lifelong dream” shared by both himself and his father.
Rice confirmed his participation shortly after being named an All-Star on Saturday and immediately informed his father, who has been a key figure in his development as a hitter. Dan Rice not only pitched countless batting practice sessions during Ben’s youth but also continued to throw to him frequently during the COVID-19 pandemic when Ivy League seasons were canceled. Dan’s pitching, known for a strong curveball, has challenged Rice throughout his career, fostering a competitive dynamic between them. Yankees scout Matt Hyde noted that these sessions were highly competitive and instrumental in Rice’s progression, eventually leading to the organization drafting him in the 12th round of the 2021 MLB Draft.
Rice will compete alongside Tampa Bay Rays star Junior Caminero, one of two confirmed participants so far. Should Rice emerge victorious, he would become the first Yankees player to win the Home Run Derby since Aaron Judge in 2017. Unlike past formats, this year’s Derby will limit players to a set number of swings—20 in the first round and 15 in subsequent rounds—rather than emphasizing timed sessions, which officials believe will reduce concerns about impact on players’ swings for the remainder of the season.
Manager Aaron Boone expressed confidence in Rice’s ability to perform well and emphasized the significance of the event for a first-time participant. Boone highlighted the father-son aspect of Rice’s Derby appearance and noted it as an exciting and meaningful opportunity.
Rice brings some home run hitting contest experience, having won all three derbies he participated in during Futures League games in 2020, which were used to break ties after extra innings. The left-handed batter has contributed to the Yankees’ offense, especially during Aaron Judge’s absence, and had recorded three home runs over his last six games heading into Tuesday.
Among those supporting Rice is fellow All-Star Cam Schlittler, who has volunteered to serve as Rice’s “personal Gatorade boy.” Meanwhile, Rice traveled with Judge to Tampa and observed Judge’s 2017 home run derby performance, further underscoring the event's significance for the Yankees’ young slugger. Boone hopes Rice’s Derby experience serves as a catalyst for continued success in the season’s second half.